Great Expectations: The First Stage

In the novel Great Expectations by Charles Dickens the young character Pip says "Pause as you read this, and think for a moment of the long chain of iron or gold, of thorns and flowers, that would never have bound you, but for the formation of the first link on one memorable day". In this quote he is indefinitely referring to the time when he lied to his sister and Joe. This is because it was one particular event that greatly effected him in all aspects of his life. Its apparent that this had an extremely emotional affect on Pip because he felt so completely guilty about his dishonesty. He had a special relationship with Joe which was very strong friendship, and too see how sad he was when Pips story was all made up was something he wouldn't forget. When Joe shares his younger life with Pip about his difficulties with his own father it made Pip become a more grown up version of himself and to start appreciating everything that life has to offer. From this same event, he learned that he should stay away from lying because he feels extreme guilt from it and also to respect Mr. and Mrs. Joe more.

Personally, an event in my life that had a "chain" effect was my first ballet lesson at Johansens. From this moment dance became the hugest part of everything I did, and still participate in. For a total of ten years I successfully participated in classes doing a yearly recital. However in the middle of all this is when the "chain" began. After dancing for so long, by fourth grade I was able to participate in my first year of The Nutcracker, and by seventh grade I could also do the spring productions. Once I began high school, Drill Team became my largest involvement, causing me to have to choose my activities. Choosing drill was something I did because I think it is extremely important to be involved in school. I know that one of the main reasons I was able to make the team was because of my past dance experiences, therefore, showing the effect my first dance classes had on my life until now.